FALLS CHURCH, Va. — For people living with a developmental disability like Down syndrome or autism, making friends and feeling like a part of the community can sometimes be challenging.
A local nonprofit called Best Buddies of Virginia and DC is helping to foster friendships between people with and without disabilities to help promote inclusivity. We caught up with a pair of friends
This is their story.
At Clay Café Studios in Falls Church, two friends carefully pick the perfect color of paint. But really, it’s about so much more than painting pottery.
Hannah, who is 26, is beginning a new adventure. She’s making a life all her own.
“It’s a pretty big step for me,” she said. “I’m teaching myself to be healthier and have a healthier life, and how to live by myself.”
Starting over in a new city can be difficult, and Hannah talked about some of the hardest parts.
“Being overwhelmed and stressed,” she said.
This is where Sidonia Cannon comes in.
“She had just moved here, and I had just graduated college, so a lot of my friends were moving away; it was good for both of us to meet together and find a friend,” said Cannon.
The two have formed a friendship; they’re part of a local nonprofit called Best Buddies.
“Citizens is the program we’re apart of so it’s an adult friendship program and it’s a one-to-one match,” said Cannon.
From friendships, to integrated employment, and inclusive living, Best Buddies tries to bridge the gap for those living with a developmental disability.
“There are four pillars to Best Buddies, there’s friendship; so we have adult friendship programs and in school chapters,” she said. “Leadership, so that’s our ambassador program that helps people speak up and share their thoughts about Best Buddies in the community. And then living, so also integrated living with intellectual disabilities, and like I said the jobs program – so working, lots of options to get involved and celebrate inclusion,” said Cannon.
But truly, Best Buddies is all about connection.
“Best Buddies is when you meet some new friends and sometimes they like to give parties,” said Hannah with a big smile on her face.
As with all friendships, they’re built from those countless little moments, that add up to a whole lot.
“On my birthday, they actually bought me a birthday cookie to take home,” said Hannah.
Cannon says if you want to get involved, come out to the Best Buddies events, they’re always looking for volunteers.
“It’s the meaning of life. Why are we here, why do we have a job, it’s to make the world a better place, and I get to do that every day with Hannah,” said Cannon.
“Find your own groove,” said Hannah. “So, you can find your inner spark to show the world.”
Get involved
If you’d like to get involved, Best Buddies is holding a Friendship Walk on Saturday.
It will be on the National Mall. The walk is meant to celebrate inclusion, it's free to register and attend, and it's open to everyone of all ages.
The annual walk brings together almost 2,000 walkers and 130 school, community and corporate teams to raise awareness and funds for Best Buddies in Virginia & DC.
Saturday, April 27, 2024
Check-in: 8:30 a.m.
Opening Ceremonies: 9:30 a.m.
Walk: 10:00 a.m.
Celebrate Until: 12:30 p.m.
National Mall
7th and Madison Dr.